Canada, known for its friendly people and status as one of the world’s most educated countries, is a remarkable destination. Canada is the second-largest country globally, spanning over 9 million square kilometres. As an Indian citizen, you’ll require a Canada visa, regardless of your purpose for visiting this vast and beautiful nation.

What is a Canada Visa?

A Canada visa permits you to visit and stay in Canada for a specified period. While some countries enjoy visa-free access to Canada, Indian nationals must obtain a visa. Canada offers various visa types for different purposes, durations, and entry frequencies. Although a standard passport is usually valid for six months, the actual duration depends on the decision of the Canadian Border Security Office.

How to Apply for a Canada Visa?

To apply for a Canada visa from India, follow these steps and meet the prerequisites:

1. Determine Visa Type: Identify the specific visa category that suits your purpose, such as visitor, work, or student visa. Eligibility criteria vary by visa type. You can assess your eligibility by completing a questionnaire on the Government of Canada website.
2. Choose Application Method:
3. a. Offline Application:

• • Download the application form.
  • Fill in the required details according to the guidelines.
  • Attach the necessary documents.
  • Pay the application fees, including biometric charges.
  • Submit your application either by mail or in person at a Visa Application Center (VAC).

1. b. Online Application:

• • You can create an account on the Government of Canada website or use your banking account details.
  • Log in to your account and complete the Canada visa application form.
  • Upload the requested documents.
  • Pay the application and biometric fees.
  • Submit your Canada visa application online.

Whether applying online or offline, after submitting your application, you’ll need to wait for embassy approval. During this time, you may also be required to provide biometric information that can be done at a visa application centre or other designated biometric collection points. Alternatively, you might have to attend an interview at the VAC.

Regardless of your chosen method, accuracy and thoroughness are crucial to avoid rejection, which can impact future visa applications.

Types of Canada Visas

Canadian visas fall into two main categories: Temporary and Permanent. Temporary resident Canada visa types include:

1. Visitor Visa / Temporary Resident Visa (TRV): This visa is for individuals visiting Canada for tourism, family visits, or business purposes. These visas are typically issued for six months and come in two subtypes:

• • Canada Tourist Visa: Required for individuals whose primary purpose of the visit is tourism, including visiting family/friends or exploring the country.
  • Canada Business Visa: Necessary if your visit to Canada is for business-related activities, such as attending meetings, conferences, or exploring potential business opportunities.

1. Work Visa: This temporary visa allows individuals to work in Canada for up to 6 months before returning home or applying for an extension.
2. Study Visa: Issued to students enrolling in courses in Canada lasting more than 6 months. These visas usually permit multiple entries. While most temporary visas are valid for six months, extreme cases may receive permits valid for up to 10 years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first.

Documents Required for Canada Visa

The documents needed for a Canadian visa application vary based on the visa type. However, standard documents and specific documents are required for all visa applications, depending on the visa category. General documents for a Canadian visa application include:

• A valid passport and any previous passports, if applicable.
• Three photos complying with Canada visa photo requirements.
• Completed and signed application forms.
• No Objection Certificate (NOC) from your employer or leave sanction from your school/college.
• Travel itinerary, including confirmed air tickets and proof of accommodation.
• Proof of financial means, such as bank statements, Form-16, passbook, salary slips, etc.
• Evidence of your intention to return to your home country after your Canadian visa expires.
• Identity and civil status documents.
• Police clearances demonstrating a clean criminal record if requested.
• Medical certificate confirming the absence of chronic diseases, if requested.
• A cover letter stating your purpose, motivation, and the intended duration of your travel.
• A letter of support or invitation to Canada.

Canada Visa Photo Specifications

Ensure that your Canada visa photos adhere to these specifications:

• Size: 33mm width and 48mm length.
• Colour: Photos must be submitted in colour with accurate skin tones.
• Head size and position: The head should be measured between 15mm and 22mm wide and 28mm to 33mm long.
• Recency: The photo must be taken within the past six months; older photos will be rejected.
• Background: The background should be solid white or light blue.
• Smile: Maintain a neutral expression; smiling is not allowed.
• Eyes: Keep your eyes wide open and visible.
• Ears: Both ears must be visible.
• Glasses: Thin-rimmed eyewear is acceptable for medical purposes only.
• Headgear: Unless for religious reasons, avoid headgear.
• Blurriness: The photo should be clear.
• Attire: Ensure your clothing does not match the background to prevent rejection and retakes.
• Beard: Facial hair is optional.
• Quantity: You must submit two photos with your application.

Canada Visa Processing Time

A Canada visa application processing time can vary based on missing documents, incorrect application forms, biometric appointments, interviews, and other variables. On average, the processing time for a Canada visa ranges from 10 to 15 days for well-prepared applications. However, it can extend to more than 30 days in certain situations. Early biometric submission can expedite the process, so applying well in advance is advisable.

Canada Visa Fees

The fees for a Canada visa depend on the applicant’s location, application method, number of entries, length of stay, and urgency. The specific Canada visa type you choose also impacts the fees. In addition to processing fees, you may be required to pay charges for biometric submission and other services if you apply at a VAC.

Canada Visa Status Check Online India

Throughout the visa process, you will receive current email updates about the status of your visa application. Alternatively, you can track your application using your passport number and last name through the VAC’s online system or by contacting the embassy where you submitted your application.

Where to Apply for a Canada Visa

You can submit your Canada visa application online through the Government of Canada website and pay the fees online. In case you prefer an offline application, you can also download the application form from the same website, fill it out, and submit it in person or by mail to a Visa Application Center (VAC). Biometric data can be submitted at designated locations or VACs. Visa application centres are conveniently located across India, with the Canadian embassy in New Delhi and Consulate Generals in Bangalore, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Chandigarh.